Word on the C Street

Matt Johnson is the Founding Partner at Johnson Shapiro Slewett & Kole LLP, a law firm representing some of the most recognizable on-camera talent today, as well as many renowned film and television producers, directors, and writers. On this episode, Matt discusses why he founded a different type of law firm - one grounded in social activism - and how his involvement with Los Angeles’s police commission shaped his perspective on police reform. 

Erika James is Dean of Wharton, one of the nation’s top business schools. Erika discusses the mindset shift that helped her fully embrace her role as the first woman and first person of color to lead Wharton, the infrastructure needed to help companies diversify their talent pipelines, and the grounding mechanism executives can use to determine whether to speak out on a societal issue.   

Wendy Garcia is the Deputy Commissioner of Equity and Inclusion for the New York City Police Department. On the episode, Wendy discusses how increased representation in law enforcement leads to safer communities and why accountability is critical for fostering more diverse, equitable, and inclusive institutions. 

On this episode, Jon speaks with Fred Guttenberg, whose 14-year-old daughter Jaime was murdered in the Parkland school shooting on February 14, 2018. He has since dedicated his life to fighting for gun safety in America. 

Though this interview was recorded prior, the racist shooting that occurred in Buffalo, New York on May 14th gives Fred’s story and activism a renewed sense of urgency.

Julianna Goldman is an award-winning journalist, former White House correspondent, and founder of MamaDen. On this episode, Julianna shares how the overwhelming response to her article on the motherhood penalty in TV news led her to found MamaDen; how hybrid work presents both opportunities and challenges for working mothers; and her views on the important role men can play in helping to change workplace culture, from serving as sponsors to helping normalize parental leave.  

Mona Aboelnaga  is a CEO, serial entrepreneur, and investor. On this episode, you'll hear Mona discuss how diverse perspectives drive better decision making, what she views as the key to her entrepreneurial success, and why she thinks DEI is existential to the success of a capitalistic economic model.

Amelia Keyes and Marjan Kris Abubo are on the National Board of Law Students for Climate Accountability, an organization seeking to hold the legal industry accountable with respect to global climate change. You’ll hear them discuss their perspective on the current state of the legal industry's relationship with the fossil fuel industry, why law firms' choice of which clients to represent is an ethical decision, and why racial and social justice are necessary for climate justice. 

Laphonza Butler is President of Emily's List. On this episode, Laphonza discusses her organization’s efforts to elect Democratic pro-choice women to office and the power of collective action in dismantling systemic inequities. 

Jaime Harrison is the Chairman of the Democratic National Committee. On this episode, you'll hear Jaime discuss Corporate America’s responsibility to ensure all communities thrive and offer a path for preserving hope through what could be a turnaround moment for the country. 

Jaeson Ma is a venture capitalist, media executive, artist, and serial entrepreneur. On this episode, you’ll hear Jaeson share his life’s mission to bridge East and West through stories and talent, and reflect on how AAPI leaders came together in a moment of crisis for their communities.